Emil Kakkis is an American geneticist and philanthropist, best known for his work in developing treatments for ultra-rare disorders. As the CEO of Ultragenyx, he has played a pivotal role in advancing research and commercialization of novel products for the treatment of rare and ultra-rare diseases. Kakkis is also the founder of the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Disease, which aims to accelerate biotech innovation for rare diseases.
Who is the CEO of Ultragenyx?
Emil Kakkis, an accomplished medical geneticist, is the CEO of Ultragenyx, a company dedicated to developing treatments for rare and ultra-rare genetic diseases. Before founding Ultragenyx, Kakkis worked at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he developed enzyme replacement therapy for Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS I).
He later joined BioMarin as Chief Medical Officer, leading the development of treatments for rare disorders such as MPS VI and PKU. In addition to his work at Ultragenyx, Kakkis is the founder of the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Disease, which aims to accelerate biotech innovation for rare diseases through improvements in development strategies, regulatory policy, and law.
Work History
- Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc. - Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and President (2010 - present)
- EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases - Board Member (2009 - 2023) and President (2009 - 2016)
- National Organization for Rare Disorders - Board Member (2009 - 2011)
- BioMarin - Development Consultant (2009 - 2010) and Chief Medical Officer (1998 - 2009)
- Harbor-UCLA Research and Education Institute - Assistant Professor (1993 - 1998)
- Harbor UCLA Med Center, Research and Education Institute - Assistant Professor (1993 - 1998)
Education History
Emil Kakkis began his educational journey at Wilson High School of Long Beach, California, where he studied from 1975 to 1978. He then pursued a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology at Pomona College, graduating in 1982. Kakkis continued his education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he earned a combined MD/Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry between 1982 and 1989. This strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in medical genetics and rare disease research.
When did Emil Kakkis join Ultragenyx?
Dr. Emil Kakkis founded Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc. in 2010, and since then, he has been serving as the company's Chief Executive Officer, President, and Director. As of 2023, Dr. Kakkis has been with Ultragenyx for approximately 13 years, focusing on developing therapeutics for rare and ultra-rare diseases.